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August 25, 2011

Texas Senator Kirk Watson released the following statement Thursday following University of Texas System Chancellor Francisco Cigarroa’s presentation of his “Framework for Advancing Excellence throughout the University of Texas System” and discussion of the need for advanced medical education and research in Austin:

An advanced medical education and research initiative, growing alongside and in partnership with University of Texas System institutions, represents almost limitless opportunity for Central Texans’ economy, health and quality of life. I’ve worked on and believe in this vision, and it’s been my privilege to work with Chancellor Cigarroa and Executive Vice Chancellor Shine on various strategies to make this happen.

The Chancellor’s framework is important, timely and welcome. Within the next 30 days, I plan to offer a path – and a challenge for our community – to build on his statement so we realize these goals that so many of us have shared for so long. It’s time for Austin to come together and act, creating a flagship initiative that can fortify our future and lead the world in the fields of medical education, healthcare and bioscience.

A flagship health science center and medical school represent a significant opportunity. We must come together and seize it.